Engineering Open Weekend

A rare chance to step behind the scenes at The Watercress Line and explore the fascinating world of heritage railway engineering.

Discover the working engineering hub at Ropley Station, where you can follow a Behind the Scenes tour (free as part of Heritage Open Days), meet the staff and volunteers who keep the railway running, and get up close to current restoration projects across the yard, engineering shed and carriage shop viewing gallery.

Enjoy unlimited travel on steam and diesel services through the stunning Hampshire countryside, including the impressive Merchant Navy Class 35005 Canadian Pacific in action following its major overhaul in 2025.

Across all four heritage stations, visitors can explore society stands, hands‑on displays, children’s activities, and exhibitions including Delivering the Goods at Medstead & Four Marks. Families can enjoy everything from lever‑pulling in the signal box to engineering‑themed challenges and colouring stations.

With food, drink and gift shops open throughout the line, it’s a full day out for enthusiasts, families and anyone curious about how a heritage railway works.